The use of non-food crops in the UK construction industry.

摘要

The use of non-food crops in construction has a long history. In addition to the use of wood as a mainstay in building housing, until recently the uses were limited to the inclusion of fibres such as wool in plasters and renders, the use of straw in 'wattle and daub' walling and, of course, the use of reed and straw in thatching. During the last 15 years the move toward sustainable buildings has led to a renewed interest in the use of non-food crops, particularly straw bale construction, the use of fibres in walls and boards and the development of insulation products from wool. This review covers the development of these materials in the UK as well as looking at the demand for more traditional uses such as thatch..